The Detroit Lions received a major boost on Thanksgiving Day as Frank Ragnow, the four-time Pro Bowl center, is officially coming out of retirement and rejoining the Lions. The news has quickly become one of the biggest NFL storylines of the week, especially with Detroit pushing for a strong finish to the 2025 season.
Ragnow Retired in June 2025 Due to Injuries
Ragnow shocked fans and the league when he retired in June 2025 after seven seasons. In his emotional announcement, he pointed to ongoing injuries and the need to focus on his long-term health and family. At the time, the 29-year-old admitted he tried to convince himself he could keep going but ultimately felt he had reached his limit.
One of the NFL’s Most Reliable Centers
During his career with Detroit, Ragnow became a core piece of one of the NFL’s strongest offensive lines. The former first-round pick out of Arkansas logged more than 90 career starts and built an impressive résumé:
4× Pro Bowl selection
3× Second-Team All-Pro (2020, 2023, 2024)
Anchor of Detroit’s elite run-blocking unit
His leadership and consistency made him one of the most respected centers in football.
Lions Adjusted After His Retirement
Following his departure, the Lions shifted their plans for 2025. Detroit spent the offseason preparing rookie Tate Ratledge and veteran Graham Glasgow to take over center responsibilities. Both were expected to compete for the starting role.
Ragnow Returns in Game-Ready Condition
Now, only months later, multiple league insiders confirm Ragnow is back in shape and ready to contribute. His sudden return gives the Lions a massive upgrade at a position that has struggled with injuries and depth concerns this season.
Impact on Detroit’s Playoff Push
Ragnow’s return comes at the perfect moment. Detroit’s offensive line has battled inconsistency, and adding an elite talent back into the starting lineup could stabilize the unit for the final stretch of the season.
While the Lions have not announced an official activation date, expectations are that Ragnow will return to the field as soon as he’s medically cleared and game-ready.
His comeback could significantly strengthen Detroit’s offense — and potentially shift the momentum in the Lions’ playoff chase.
